Jim Belushi recalls watching his brother John embody ‘Blues Brothers’ role
Jim Belushi has shared a touching memory from his early days in Hollywood, reflecting on watching his older brother, John Belushi, fully inhabit the character that would make him an icon.
“I loved that moment, to see my brother just hit the top of his chart.”
John Belushi rose to fame as part of the very first “Saturday Night Live” cast in 1975. Together with his co-star Dan Aykroyd, he created The Blues Brothers — a comedy sketch that evolved into a genuine blues and soul act. The duo first performed as musical guests on “SNL” in April 1978 and soon expanded into a touring band.
By September 1978, The Blues Brothers were opening for Steve Martin during his series of performances at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles. Jim, now 71, remembered attending those shows and witnessing his brother’s energy on stage.
“I’ll tell you what I loved: I loved going to the Universal Amphitheater when they came to LA and they opened for Steve Martin. And John was so, so magnificent.”
John Belushi’s rise was cut short when he died in 1982 from a suspected drug overdose. A few years later, Jim took over as Zee Blues, performing alongside Aykroyd’s Elwood at Aykroyd’s request, keeping alive the spirit of The Blues Brothers.
Author’s Summary
Jim Belushi fondly remembers his brother John's electric performance as a Blues Brother, capturing both the joy and loss surrounding an unforgettable era of comedy and music.